Far North MP dubs new housing projects as Labor knockoffs

The Far North’s enduring housing crisis is being eased with more than 750 social and affordable homes either being built or currently under contract, Housing Minister Sam O’Connor says.

Housing Minister Sam O'Connor, pictured second from left, says 777 social and affordable homes across the Far North are "in the pipeline". Picture: Supplied.

The Far North’s enduring housing crisis is being eased with more than 750 social and affordable homes either being built or currently under contract, Housing Minister Sam O’Connor says.

But Member for Cairns, Michael Healy has rubbished the claims, accusing the LNP of recycling old Labor announcements.

Works are underway to build 777 homes across the region, including 14 new social homes at Yorkeys Knob, Mr O’Connor said.

“Under Labor, an average of just 509 social homes were delivered per year-barely a third of the rate Queensland’s population grew over the same period,” he said.

“We’re ramping up construction to deliver 2,000 new social and community homes each year by the end of this term.

“Projects like the 14 social homes in Yorkey’s Knob are vital to meeting the need for social housing for Far North Queensland locals waiting for a place to call home.”

Member for Cairns Michael Healy says the LNP are “recycling” Labor’s Far North housing projects. Picture: Samuel Davis

Recent announcements, including a 40-unit Cairns Youth Foyer in Manoora were leftover project from Labor’s time in government, Mr Healy said.

“When I went to school what I was told was that you take claim for what you do, not for what somebody else does,” the Far North MP said.

“It’s fantastic anywhere where we can get new homes, particularly in high need areas. That is essential.

“That’s the government’s job. But what I’m interested in is where are the next announcements?

“Because we have heard absolutely nothing.”

Construction is underway on 14 social homes in Yorkeys Knob, in Far North Queensland. Picture: Supplied.

Member for Barron River, Bree James said there were now almost 6000 social and affordable homes in the pipeline across Queensland — more than twice the number Labor had locked in at the time of its last budget.

“We promised to get moving on housing and we are delivering on that commitment, giving our community the fresh start, it deserves,” Ms James said.

The state government had committed $5.6bn over the next four years, laying the foundations for more than 53,500 social and community homes by 2044, Mr O’Connor said.

“While we have locked-in a record pipeline for social housing and are delivering more homes sooner with the Residential Activation Fund, there is much more to be done to deliver a place to call home for more Queenslanders, and we remain committed to delivering the fresh start we promised,” he said.

Last week, Mr O’Connor announced that construction was underway on seven modular homes at Yarrabah.

Originally published as Far North MP dubs new housing projects as Labor knockoffs